Kildare man and JP McManus win lifetime membership awards
Voluntary work
Aubrey McCarthy, volunteer chairman of the non profit organisation Tiglin, is among the latest recipients of the Royal Dublin Society (RDS) lifetime membership award.
The Naas man was recognised alongside businessman and philanthropist JP McManus for his dedication to Tiglin's mission and his efforts to enhance the lives of the community's most marginalised individuals.
Mr McCarthy's commitment to Tiglin has made a profound impact on hundreds of individuals who have benefited from the organisation's care. His motivation to assist others originates from his personal experiences of growing up in a dysfunctional household plagued by poverty and family members' addiction.
Chief Executive of the RDS, Liam Kavanagh, highlighted the organisation's historical role in advancing Irish society, initially focusing on agriculture, arts, industry, and science. Today, the RDS addresses social challenges including the housing crisis, mental health, substance abuse, inequality, and immigration – issues McCarthy has dedicated himself to addressing.
Established in 2008 as a drug rehabilitation centre, Tiglin has since broadened its mission to encompass evidence-based rehabilitation and societal reintegration for both men and women.
The organisation now offers supported housing, educational opportunities, social enterprises, and operates Tiglin at the Lighthouse, a homeless café aimed at assisting those experiencing homelessness.
“We try to provide a living room for those in need of one. Many people you see on the streets are walking all day, trying to keep out of people’s way. What we aim to do at the Lighthouse to provide a place where they can sit down and be part of our family, regardless of their nationality, gender, or creed,” said Mr McCarthy, who works in a strictly voluntary capacity.
He said: “Tiglin has set out to tackle homelessness and addiction with dignity - I am delighted to accept this award on behalf of an amazing team.”
Tiglin hosted a “grilll & chill” festival at Mountjoy Square, Dublin, recently: The event was attended by Mary Lou McDonald and Dublin City councillor Daithí Doolan as well as the ambassadors of Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, Slovakia, Malta, and Poland, along with the social media personality The Black Paddy.